Online Report”
An anti-rape platform has been launched at Dhaka University (DU) demanding swift justice for cases of rape and sexual violence.
The announcement was made at 2 AM on Sunday (March 9) near the Raju Sculpture at Dhaka University by Rafia Rehnuma Hridi, spokesperson for Bangladesh Democratic Students’ Council’s DU unit, and Umama Fatema, former spokesperson for the Anti-Discrimination Students’ Movement.
The forum has given a 24-hour ultimatum to interim government’s Home affairs advisor, calling for the immediate submission of rapists before court. If their demand is not met within this time frame, the platform has warned of escalated protests.
The platform immediately presented two key demands–establishment of a fast-track tribunal to address rape cases and public execution of the maximum punishment for rapists.
The group also announced a plan for Sunday evening, which included torch rallies at 7:30 PM from every residential halls from DU, concluding with a gathering at the Raju Sculpture.
Umama Fatema gave a 24-hour ultimatum to the Home Affairs advisor, stating, “We demanded the rapists to be produced before the court within 24 hours. If they are not, we will launch a stronger movement.”
Hasib Al-islam, chief organizer of Bangladesh Democratic Students’ council’s DU unit, added, ”Despite the military having magistracy powers, the country’s situation has worsened. Meanwhile, the Home Affairs advisor is sitting idly, just collecting his salary. He has failed to ensure the safety of women and maintain law and order. From today’s rally, we demand the resignation of Jahangir Alam Chowdhury.